Richards leaves Tigers

Dean Richards has left Leicester Tigers after six years as director of rugby.

Richards's time in charge spanned the move into the professional era and was crowned by back-to-back Heineken Cup wins.

But the former England international has paid the price for a poor season which has seen the club struggle in the Zurich Premiership and fail to clear the first hurdle in Europe.

Richards, who also played for Leicester, said: "I am disappointed to be leaving Leicester Tigers after 23 years at a wonderful club.

"However, I would like to wish the players and coaches the very best for the future and thank the fans for the tremendous support they have given me both as a player and as a coach."

Peter Wheeler, the club's chief executive, will take over team affairs until the end of the season. He will be assisted by forwards coach John Wells, and senior players Neil Back and Martin Johnson.

Peter Tom, Leicester's chairman, said: "I would like to place on record the gratitude of the board of directors and supporters for Dean's contribution to Leicester Tigers, both as a player and as director of rugby.

"He has guided the team to seven trophies in the past six years, including four consecutive Premiership titles and back-to-back Heineken Cup wins.

"Unfortunately there has been a steady decline in the team's performance over the past two seasons.

"The board felt that this decline could only be checked by significant changes within the playing structure. Dean did not find these changes acceptable."

Sale's Jim Mallinder has been reported as a possible replacement to Richards but Tom said the Tigers will be casting a wide net in their search for a successor.

He added: "We will be advertising worldwide for a replacement, but do not intend to rush into any appointment."